Hidden gems in New Zealand

Hidden Gems of New Zealand

New Zealand’s landscape features unique geological and cultural sites beyond the major cities. This collection includes the limestone layers of Pancake Rocks, the geothermal springs of Hot Water Beach, and the massive Te Paki sand dunes. Coastal highlights range from the white stone arch of Cathedral Cove to Slope Point, the South Island's southernmost tip. Cultural stops include the mosaic-filled gardens of The Giant's House and the extensive Maori and colonial artifacts at Okains Bay.

Mike Bordignon / CC BY 3.0

Cathedral Cove

Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve is in the southern part of Mercury Bay on the Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand covering an area of 840…

Mir / CC-BY-SA

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Do you have a sweet tooth? Do you like pancakes?

Steve & Jem Copley / CC BY-SA 2.0

Hot Water Beach

Hot Water Beach is a beach on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand, just south of Mercury Bay.

CC BY-SA 4.0

Te Paki Dunes

Who would have thought that sandboarding in New Zealand is a thing? Well, any disbeliever may as well drive up to the northwesternmost tip…

abu_9495 / CC BY 3.0

Slope Point

Slope Point is the southernmost point of the South Island of New Zealand.

Martina Kellnerová / CC-BY-SA

The Giant's House

Historic house in Akaroa featuring extensive gardens filled with large-scale mosaic sculptures, terraced walls, and colorful tile artwork created by artist Josie Martin.

Francesco Veronesi / CC BY-SA 2.0

Gannet colony

Cliff-top nesting site at Muriwai Beach where thousands of Australasian gannets congregate between August and March. Viewing platforms provide close access to the breeding pairs and chicks.

Schwede66 / CC BY-SA 3.0

Okains Bay Maori & Colonial Museum

Museum on Banks Peninsula housing a significant collection of Maori taonga, including several waka, alongside restored colonial buildings like a smithy, schoolhouse, and stables.